Quick answer: An abdominal ultrasound scan is a painless, radiation-free imaging procedure that provides real-time images of the organs within the abdominal cavity – from the liver, through the gallbladder, to the pancreas. It is carried out on an empty stomach, the results are available immediately, and the procedure takes 15–20 minutes.
If you experience abdominal pain, bloating, jaundice or indigestion on a daily basis, you have probably heard of the indications for an abdominal ultrasound scan. This is one of the most commonly performed diagnostic procedures and an indispensable tool for doctors in assessing the condition of internal organs – yet many people are unsure exactly what to expect.
This article is designed to help you with exactly that. We summarise what an abdominal ultrasound scan reveals, when it is recommended, how to prepare for it, and what happens if the results indicate a need for further investigation. If you are experiencing persistent symptoms, or if your GP has recommended this scan, you will find all the essential information in the guide below.
What is an abdominal ultrasound scan, and how does it work?
An abdominal ultrasound scan uses high-frequency sound waves – which are inaudible to the human ear – to produce images of the internal organs. When the probe is pressed against the abdominal wall, it emits these sound waves, which are reflected back from the organs; the device then uses the received signals to generate a real-time image on the monitor.
The method is completely safe: it causes neither radiation exposure nor allergic reactions. For this reason, it can be used at any age, and even by pregnant women. The test can be repeated and does not require any special aftercare.
It is important to note that abdominal ultrasound is primarily suitable for examining solid organs and fluid-filled structures. It provides limited information about the inner lining of the stomach and intestines, as air-filled intestinal loops interfere with image formation.
What does an abdominal ultrasound scan show?
Liver, gallbladder and bile ducts
An abdominal ultrasound scan is particularly suitable for detecting abnormalities of the liver and the digestive system, as these organs are easily accessible to ultrasound.
In the case of the liver, the size of the organ can be determined and fatty liver (steatosis) can be detected – as fatty tissue typically appears lighter on the monitor. Cysts, lesions suggestive of tumours and focal abnormalities can also be identified.
Gallstones in the gallbladder (cholelithiasis) appear as bright spots on an ultrasound scan, with a characteristic shadow behind them. Thickening of the wall, fluid accumulation and tenderness are indicative of cholecystitis. Dilation of the bile ducts – which may be caused by an obstruction to bile flow – can also be reliably detected.
Pancreas and spleen
Ultrasound examination of the pancreas is technically more challenging, as it is a deeply situated organ and intestinal gas often obscures the view. Nevertheless, in cases of acute inflammation, oedema and blurred contours are visible; in chronic inflammation, an irregular structure can be identified, whilst cysts and lesions suggestive of tumours may also be present.
An abdominal ultrasound scan is ideal for assessing the size and structure of the spleen. Enlargement, circulatory problems or focal abnormalities can be reliably detected.
Kidneys, pelvis and other organs
An abdominal ultrasound scan also examines both kidneys: it can detect kidney stones, kidney sand, dilated renal calyces and cysts. A pelvic ultrasound provides information on the condition of the uterus and ovaries in women, and the prostate in men. In addition, the bladder, major blood vessels and abdominal lymph nodes can also be examined.
When is an abdominal ultrasound scan recommended?
Abdominal ultrasound is used as the first-line diagnostic method for investigating a wide range of symptoms and conditions. It is particularly indicated in the following cases:
- Abdominal or lower back pain of unknown origin
- Bloating, a feeling of fullness, digestive problems
- Persistent or recurrent nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite
- Jaundice, dark urine, pale stools (suspected biliary obstruction)
- Bloody or dark-coloured urine, urinary symptoms
- Unexplained weight loss, fatigue, unexplained fever
- Elevated liver enzymes in the laboratory results
- Follow-up care following a known medical condition (such as hepatitis or kidney disease)
- In the event of a palpable abdominal mass
- For routine screening, particularly for those aged 40 and over, or if there is a family history of any organ disease
How should I prepare for an abdominal ultrasound scan?
Proper preparation is essential for accurate, reliable results. This is because intestinal gas and a contracted gallbladder can compromise the quality of the examination.
Arrival on an empty stomach: Do not eat any solid food for at least 6 hours before the examination. You may drink water. The morning is the best time for the examination.
Medicines: Medicines taken daily can usually be taken as normal. If in doubt, ask your doctor.
A full bladder is required for a pelvic examination: If the pelvis is also to be examined, please drink plenty of fluids 1–1.5 hours before the procedure and do not go to the toilet before the examination. Do not drink fizzy drinks!
Please bring your medical history with you: Previous laboratory results, medical reports and any imaging studies help the doctor to understand the connections.
Please inform your doctor: Please provide all relevant information – any pain you are experiencing, any medicines you are taking, and whether you are pregnant. These factors may all affect the interpretation of the results.
A step-by-step guide to an abdominal ultrasound scan
The examination is quick and completely painless. Below, we outline the process step by step:
- Location: The patient lies on their back on the examination couch and rolls up or removes their top clothing so that the abdomen is fully exposed.
- Applying the gel: The doctor applies a water-based ultrasound gel to the abdomen. This helps the sound waves to travel and ensures good contact between the probe and the skin. The gel is cold, but harmless.
- The investigation: The specialist moves the probe across various parts of the abdomen and can see real-time images of the organs on the monitor. They may ask you to hold your breath briefly or turn onto your side.
- Assessment and reporting of findings: Following the examination, the doctor will summarise their findings and then provide a detailed written report. The whole process usually takes 15–20 minutes. You can go home straight after the examination; no special precautions are required.
When is an ultrasound scan not sufficient, and what other tests are required?
An abdominal ultrasound scan is an essential first step, but it does have its limitations. It is not suitable for the direct examination of the mucous membranes of the stomach and intestines, nor can it be used to take tissue samples. If the ultrasound scan reveals no abnormalities but the symptoms persist – or if the scan has identified an abnormality that requires further investigation – an endoscopic examination may be necessary.
Upper gastrointestinal complaints In cases of (persistent epigastric pain, heartburn, difficulty swallowing, nausea, unexplained weight loss), it is recommended that a gastroscopy under general anaesthesia be carried out, as this provides a direct view of the condition of the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum.
Lower gastrointestinal symptoms (bloody stools, chronic diarrhoea, changes in bowel habits, colorectal cancer screening), a colonoscopy under general anaesthesia is indicated, during which polyps and inflammatory lesions can also be treated immediately.
Complex complaints In such cases – for example, unexplained anaemia, accompanied by abdominal pain and weight loss – carrying out both tests together is the most effective approach.
How is an abdominal ultrasound scan related to gastroenterology?
Gastroenterology is the medical speciality that deals with diseases of the digestive system – the oesophagus, stomach, small and large intestines, liver, gallbladder and pancreas. An abdominal ultrasound scan is one of the fundamental steps in a gastroenterological examination: it enables the doctor to assess any abnormalities quickly, painlessly and without radiation, which may help determine the course of further treatment.
Endomedix is one of the country’s leading private gastroenterology networks, with several decades of clinical experience in the diagnosis and treatment of digestive system disorders. If you are experiencing abdominal symptoms, or if your GP has recommended an investigation, Endomedix’s specialists will draw up a personalised diagnostic plan for you.
If you have persistent abdominal symptoms, don’t delay getting it checked out: book an appointment for a specialist gastroenterology consultation, where the specialist will determine whether an abdominal ultrasound scan is sufficient on its own, or whether more targeted investigations are also required.
It is not worth delaying an abdominal ultrasound scan
An abdominal ultrasound scan is a quick, painless and safe procedure that provides important information about the condition of the internal organs. By following just one preparatory guideline – arriving on an empty stomach – the results can be accurately assessed, and the doctor can immediately begin investigating any abnormalities.
The sooner the examination takes place, the sooner any potential problem can be identified, and the more effective the treatment is likely to be. If you are suffering from persistent abdominal symptoms, book an appointment at our gastroenterology clinic – the expert team at Endomedix is ready to provide you with the highest standard of care.
Book an appointment for a gastroenterology consultation
Frequently asked questions about abdominal ultrasound scans
Is an abdominal ultrasound scan painful?
No. The examination is completely painless, involves no radiation and has no known side effects. At most, the cold gel may cause slight discomfort, and you may feel a moderate sensation of pressure when the probe is pressed against your skin.
How long does an abdominal ultrasound scan take?
The procedure usually takes 15–20 minutes. If a pelvic examination is also carried out, it may take slightly longer. You can go home straight after the examination; no special observation is required.
When will I receive the results?
The results are available immediately after the examination. The specialist conducting the examination will explain their findings to you verbally, and you will also receive a written report which you can show to your GP.
Do you always have to arrive on an empty stomach for an abdominal ultrasound scan?
Generally speaking, yes – please do not eat any solid food for at least 6 hours before the examination. For a pelvic examination, you must arrive with a full bladder. Always check with the clinic when booking your appointment for any specific preparation instructions.
What should I do if the test results are abnormal?
Don’t panic. An abnormality detected on an ultrasound scan does not necessarily indicate a serious illness – in many cases, it is a benign condition (such as a cyst or fatty liver). For an accurate diagnosis, consult a specialist gastroenterologist, who will determine the necessary next steps.
When is an abdominal ultrasound scan not sufficient?
If the symptoms suggest a problem with the inner lining of the stomach or bowel – for example, persistent stomach pain, blood in the stools or chronic diarrhoea – an ultrasound scan alone is not sufficient. In such cases, an endoscopic examination (gastroscopy or colonoscopy) is required to make an accurate diagnosis.
Can the test be carried out during pregnancy?
Yes. An abdominal ultrasound scan does not involve radiation, so it is safe to use even in pregnant women.
